"A hare was just sitting for pleasure,
Just sitting at the boundary ridge.
But the hunters did not see him,
Did not know
That he was sitting lamenting
And making his will
At the boundary ridge."
Here he turned to his brothers and asked them,--
"Do ye know the will made by that hare at the boundary ridge?"
"We know, but it is pleasant to hear it repeated."
"Then listen.
"Kiss me all ye horsemen and hunters,
Kiss me at the boundary ridge.
"This is what I would write to all at Belchantska if I were in Yatsek's position; and if he does not write it, may the first Janissary disembowel me if I do not write it in my own name and yours to Pan Gideon."
"Oh, as God is dear to me, that is a capital idea!" cried Yan, much delighted.